Introduction
Rex E. Lee was a man of many talents and accomplishments. He was an actor, a lawyer, a solicitor general, and a university president. Despite his many achievements, Lee was known for his humility and his dedication to serving others. In this blog post, we will explore the life and legacy of Rex E. Lee and the impact he had on the state of Utah and beyond.
Early Life and Acting Career
Childhood and Education
Rex E. Lee was born on February 27, 1935, in St. Johns, Arizona. He grew up in a large family with seven siblings and was raised in a devout Mormon household. Lee was an excellent student and received a scholarship to attend Brigham Young University (BYU) in Provo, Utah. While at BYU, Lee became interested in acting and performed in several productions, including “The Diary of Anne Frank” and “The Crucible.”
Acting Career
After graduating from BYU in 1957, Lee moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting. He appeared in several off-Broadway productions and landed a role in the Broadway play “The Cave Dwellers.” In 1960, Lee moved to Hollywood and began appearing in television shows and movies. He appeared in several popular TV shows, including “The Fugitive,” “Gunsmoke,” and “The Twilight Zone.”
Legal Career and Solicitor General
Law School and Early Legal Career
In 1962, Lee decided to pursue a career in law and enrolled at the University of Chicago Law School. After graduating in 1965, he clerked for Judge Byron White of the U.S. Supreme Court. Lee then joined the law firm of Sidley Austin in Chicago, where he worked for several years before returning to Utah.
Solicitor General
In 1981, Lee was appointed by President Ronald Reagan to serve as the U.S. Solicitor General, the top lawyer for the federal government in cases before the Supreme Court. Lee argued several high-profile cases during his tenure, including the landmark case of Chevron U.S.A., Inc. v. Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc. In 1985, Lee resigned as Solicitor General and returned to private practice in Utah.
BYU President
Appointment as President
In 1989, Lee was appointed as the thirteenth president of Brigham Young University, his alma mater. As president, Lee oversaw several major initiatives, including the construction of a new law school building and the creation of the J. Reuben Clark Law Society. He also emphasized the importance of academic freedom and encouraged students to engage in intellectual inquiry.
Legacy as President
Lee served as BYU president until his death in 1996. He is remembered for his dedication to the university and his commitment to serving others. In his honor, BYU established the Rex E. Lee Chair in Constitutional Law and the Rex E. Lee Society, which promotes the study of law and the principles of the U.S. Constitution.
Conclusion
Rex E. Lee was a remarkable individual who achieved success in multiple fields. He was a talented actor, a skilled lawyer, and a visionary university president. Despite his many accomplishments, Lee remained humble and devoted to serving others. His legacy continues to inspire and influence those who knew him and those who have learned about his remarkable life.
FAQ
Who is Rex E. Lee?
Rex E. Lee was an American lawyer, academic administrator, and actor who served as Solicitor General of the United States and President of Brigham Young University.
What was Rex E. Lee’s background in acting?
Rex E. Lee was a talented actor who appeared in several movies and television shows, including “The Greatest Story Ever Told,” “The F.B.I.,” and “Gunsmoke.”
How did Rex E. Lee transition from acting to law?
After graduating from law school, Rex E. Lee worked as a law clerk for Supreme Court Justice Byron White before joining the faculty at Brigham Young University’s law school. He later served as Solicitor General of the United States under President Ronald Reagan.
What were some of Rex E. Lee’s accomplishments as Solicitor General?
As Solicitor General, Rex E. Lee argued several high-profile cases before the Supreme Court, including the landmark case of Bob Jones University v. United States, which upheld the IRS’s revocation of the university’s tax-exempt status due to its racially discriminatory policies.
What were some of Rex E. Lee’s accomplishments as President of Brigham Young University?
As President of Brigham Young University, Rex E. Lee oversaw significant growth and development of the university, including the construction of several new buildings and the establishment of new academic programs. He also worked to strengthen the university’s commitment to its religious mission and to promote academic freedom and diversity.
